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When it comes to cocktails, sometimes the simplest solutions are the ones that end up being the most effective. Ask any mixologist and they would tell you that less is usually more, and keeping things simple and basic can manifest into elegance in a glass. The best part is that you’ll often find that everything you need to make a crisp cocktail already exists in your kitchen. 3-ingredient cocktails can be deceptive with their simplicity, but sometimes all it takes is a little precision, presence of mind and some smart pairings to level up even the most basic spirit to something spectacular. Whether you’re a pro or a novice behind the bar, trying out some punchy 3-ingredient cocktails can be a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch. Don’t let the stress of unannounced visitors get to you and catch them by surprise with these instantaneous recipes.
Gin Sour
Nothing goes together more effortlessly than gin and citrus, and a Gin Sour is testament to this. One of the simplest but most effective ways to highlight the botanical notes of a delicious dry gin, all you need is a generous pour of gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice and simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, gently heated until all the sugar has dissolved). Simply add all your ingredients to a shaker with ice, adjusting based on whether you want something sweeter, or sourer – and then strain into a chilled glass. Magic in minutes!
Mexican Margarita
Margarita nights are everyone’s favourite for a reason. Whether frozen or shaken, they are a timeless choice for bar-goers and at-home mixologists alike; especially since it’s a simple way to create a mouth-puckering drink. The original margarita usually calls for triple sec or Cointreau for a citrus edge, but a Mexican Margarita is a much simpler affair. Be sure to pick some high-quality tequila, pair it with some agave for sweetness and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a sour flavour, shake with crushed ice, pour and drink up!
Curry Leaf Martini
Image Credits: Dishes Delish
Channel the taste of India with a simple cocktail that plays up the earthy notes of curry leaves while pairing it with the clean flavour of vodka. A touch of sweetness brings out the best of all the ingredients as you simply muddle some curry leaves in a shaker, add in your vodka, a dash of simple syrup and shake with ice and pour. If desired, top up with a splash of soda for a bubbly finish.
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Old Fashioned
A classic for a reason, the Old Fashioned cocktail is known for its adaptability and timeless appeal. Though traditionally made with whiskey, it can effortlessly translate to any spirit of your choice. To make it, muddle sugar with a dash of bitters and top off with either whisky, bourbon, vodka or even gin. To add an extra edge, you can wipe down the rim of the glass with an orange peel for a slight citrus kick.
Instant Espresso Martini
While the espresso martini may have had its time as the trendiest drink of the 2000s, it still has a lot of dedicated fans who swear by its coffee-laced kick, even today. But you don’t need the fanciest freshly ground coffee beans to make this cocktail successfully, since similar results can be achieved with a blend of instant coffee powder dissolved in hot water to form a thick paste and then mixed with vodka and a simple syrup. A truly electrifying experience indeed.
Daiquiri
Take a tropical trip with this beloved classic which is still a popular go-to among professional bartenders – the daiquiri is a genuinely simple drink that's hard not to appreciate when expertly crafted. A classic Daiquiri consists of high-quality aged white rum, fresh lime juice and homemade simple syrup. Using cane syrup or demerara is also a great option for a slightly more unique edge and Caribbean feel. Even those with reservations about rum will be won over by this refreshing sour.
